Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

Don’t be intimidated by the hustle and bustle of the Indiana BMV with this handy guide, courtesy of I Drive Safely, that breaks down the most common driving- and traffic-related services offered by the BMV.

For all of your automobile-related needs, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is the place to get your problems solved and questions answered. Every Indiana driver needs to become acquainted with the BMV, whether it’s for applying or renewing licenses, changing address information, lifting a license suspension, or registering a new vehicle. This guide will provide a quick overview to make the BMV process easier, and ensure you have the smoothest and quickest visit whenever you step inside one of their branches located throughout the state.

Locating the Closest BMV Branch

The first step is to find the nearest BMV branch; you can do that easily by visiting the BMV’s online branch locator. Full-service license branches operate from Tuesday to Saturday, and other limited customer service branches operate from Monday to Saturday. Prior to visiting, be sure to check operating hours; be aware that some locations may not offer certain services. Each branch is subject to its own policies, and you don’t want to waste a trip to an office that doesn’t perform the services you need.

Making Appointments with the BMV

Long lines are a way of life at the BMV. To avoid long wait times, try going before the lunchtime rush. BMV offices are also generally less busy during the middle of the week and the middle of the month. For faster service, you can also make an appointment using the BMV’s online reservation system. Keep in mind that only certain services are allowed during appointments, such as renewals and amendments of licenses and ID cards, and processing titles and registrations for Indiana vehicles. You can make reservations from 2 days to 2 weeks in advance. Don’t forget that there is also a separate appointment system for scheduling an Indiana road test.

Using Indiana BMV Forms

It helps to have the necessary paperwork ready before going to the BMV. It is important to do research on exactly which forms are needed for the particular transaction or service you want executed. This will save not only your time, but everyone else’s as well. All of the relevant forms can be downloaded online, printed, and completed ahead of time so that you can have them ready for the BMV employee. Failure to fill out the appropriate paperwork properly may result in further delay or even outright rejection. Learn more at Forms.

The Indiana Driver Responsibility Point System

Your driving record accumulates “points” whenever you are caught committing a traffic violation. Indiana uses this driver responsibility system to penalize frequent offenders and keep reckless drivers off the roads. Common violations like speeding will warrant two to six points, and more serious offenses like driving on a suspended license are up to eight points. Insurance companies also use this information to assess the potential liabilities of a certain driver, and will raise premiums accordingly. A violation and its points stay active for two years after they occur. Committing two or more offenses in a 12-month period will obligate you to attend a Driver Safety Program, or face suspension. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your points before this happens.

Get a Copy of Your Driving Record

Your driving record shows all outstanding and resolved violations, citations, suspensions, and any other relevant factors impacting your driving history. Ordering a copy of your Indiana driving record is the best way to keep up to date with the status of your license and prevent future suspensions and other problems. Your driving record is also often used by employers and insurance agencies to determine your safety and responsibility behind the wheel. Do everything you can to keep a clean driving record at all costs!